I received a "courtesy" call today that my medical bill that had gone to collections was now going into judgement. I had spoken to this company 2 weeks ago and said I could send $25 after the first of the month (november) and they took that as I would pay it off on the first. I tried to explain the mistake and the lady became downright rude. We cannot afford this. We are barely making it now and I fear they will garnish wages. She also said something to me about being on my record for 20 years. I contacted a few credit counseling services in my area=Portland Or, and they say they can help by me making one monthly payment and it getting negoitated to all my creditors. Does this work? Are there any other options? The lady told me I would also be responsible for all legal fees and fines. I'm terrified.

First, collectors tend to be rude. It goes with the territory. Remember you owe them money.

Some counseling services are legitimate, others aren't. But your creditors have to agree to work with them.

For the collector to get a judgement they have to file suit against you. Which means a court hearing. But if the debt is valid they will get a judgement and with the judgement they can garnish wages.